Kansas Jayhawks vs. Wagner: Game prediction, betting odds & TV info for Friday
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- Kansas football faces Wagner as a 46.5-point favorite at home.
- Matchup likely allows playing time for backups including Ballard and Marshall.
- Quarterback Jalon Daniels aims to build early lead before exiting for preservation.
The Kansas Jayhawks will host Wagner on Friday in the first ever matchup between the teams.
Kansas opened the season with a dominant victory over Fresno State. The Jayhawks played well in all three phases and will aim for a repeat performance against the Seahawks.
Here’s a closer look at Friday’s home showdown for the Jayhawks.
KU football vs. Wagner game details
Kickoff: 6:30 p.m. Central, Friday, Aug. 29
Where: Lawrence, Kansas — David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium
TV: ESPN+
Radio: Jayhawk Radio Network; WHB (810) in Kansas City; Wichita 92.3
Betting line: KU is a 46.5-point favorite.
Kansas game prediction
This game features the easiest opponent the Jayhawks face all season. This Wagner squad is projected to finish fourth in the Northeast Conference (FCS), according to league media.
Wagner tied for fifth in the conference last year.
Simply put, this game should be over by halftime. Ideally, the Jayhawks, who are favored by more than 40 points, will get the chance to play backups the entire second half.
That’s especially true with the quarterback spot.
The Jayhawks may get the chance to see backup quarterbacks Cole Ballard and Isaiah Marshall in action, which could provide a glimpse into what next season will look like.
Starting quarterback Jalon Daniels will aim to put the game out of reach early. The quicker he gets out of the game, the better for Kansas, particularly with his health having been a storyline throughout his KU career. The Jayhawks need him healthy to reach their bowl-game aspirations.
I expect Kansas to win this one, but don’t see KU covering the spread— since the starters may not last long.
Prediction: KU 48, Wagner 7
Shreyas’ pick to cover: Wagner (+46.5)
Season record: 1-0
Season record (ATS): 1-0
This story was originally published August 28, 2025 at 10:19 AM.
